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Sinus problems are often wrongly blamed for every headache felt on or in one’s face. Not every headache experienced on the forehead is indeed a sinus headache. Often, migraines occur and can produce sensations that could fool one into thinking they are experiencing sinus pain. Being able to identify the difference will ensure that you can get the proper course of treatment! In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the causes and/or surrounding symptoms occurring with these two types of headaches and risk factors to consider.
Sinus Headache: How to Tell the Difference Between Sinus Pain and Regular Headache
How Do I Know If My Headache Is a Sinus Headache?
A real sinus headache typically occurs in conjunction with a sinus infection. Sinus infections create inflammation in the sinuses.
You might have:
- Thick nasal discharge
- A blocked nose
- Pressure behind your face
- A fever
- A weakened sense of smell
Pain generally feels worse when bending forward. The cheeks, forehead, and eyes feel heavy.
If you do not have any nasal symptoms, then it is likely that you have a migraine.
What Is the Difference Between Migraine and a Sinus Headache?
Patients often mistake sinus pain for migraines, as they both produce pressure between the eyes/forehead; however, they are associated with different symptoms.
Sinus headaches differ from migraine headaches in the following ways:
Sinus:
- Causation of sinus headaches can include infection.
- Presence of yellow/green mucus.
- Facial tenderness.
- Fever may be present.
Migraine:
- Throbbing type of pain.
- Constitutes photosensitivity, nausea, and vomiting.
- Pain tends to only be felt on one side of the head.
Migraines would typically not produce a fever or any type of mucous discharge from the nose.
Numerous studies have shown that many patients who consider themselves to have a sinus headache actually have a migraine headache.
What Causes Sinus Headache?
Sinus headaches result from an inflammation of the sinuses. This blockage of the drain created by the swelling causes an increase of pressure within the sinus.
Some common causes of sinus headaches include:
- Viral infections of the sinuses
- Bacterial sinusitis
- Allergies to pollen and mold
- Nasal polyps
- Septum deviation
Sinus pressure can also be a result of seasonal allergies and can worsen with changes in the weather.
As these sinuses become blocked, patients may feel increased facial pain, heaviness in their cheeks, and other symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Sinus Pressure Headache?
Pressure in the Sinuses will lead to discomfort throughout the face and pain that is dull and constant.
There may be some common symptoms of this condition, including:
- Pressure Behind the Eyes
- Cheek Pain
- Heaviness in the Lower Part of the Forehead
- Upper Tooth Pain
- Nasal Blockage
- Thick Nasal Mucus
Pain may be intensified by leaning forward. Another way to assess this problem further is to lightly tap the area above your sinuses.
Migraine headaches do not usually cause thick, nasal mucus and/or significant nasal blockage.
How Long Does a Sinus Headache Last?
Typically, viral sinus infections will improve within the time frame of 7-10 days. With bacterial sinusitis, it may take longer to heal than if you have had a previous illness (e.g., there is no timeline for recovery).
If pain is still occurring after the 10th day, consult your physician because you may have chronic sinusitis, which can last for weeks.
Migraine attacks typically last from four (4) to seventy-two (72) hours and can occur frequently.
The length of time you suffer from your pain will help to differentiate between migraine and sinus.
What Is the Best Treatment for Sinus Headache?
The type of treatment will be based on the cause of your problem.
For Viral Sinus Infection:
- Steam inhale
- Saline nasal spray
- Drink plenty of water
- Get your rest
- For Bacterial Sinusitis:
- Antibiotic medication (prescription)
- Nasal steroid spray
- Decongestant medication
For Allergies:
- Antihistamine medication
- Avoid allergens
- For Migraines
- Triptan medications (prescription)
- Pain relievers (such as Tylenol or Advil)
- Avoiding Triggers
The correct diagnosis is key to obtaining relief quickly. If you are treating a migraine as a sinus infection, you should expect a delay in your improvement.
When Should I See a Doctor for Sinus Pain or Headache?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention:
- High fever
- Swelling of the eyes
- Severe headache
- Changes in vision
- Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days
- Frequent headaches returning
ENT specialists utilize endoscopy to examine the nasal passages. Some imaging tests may be used to confirm a diagnosis of sinus infection.
You will help reduce the chances of developing complications or chronic sinus conditions by seeking medical evaluation early.
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